Generalized Anxiety Disorder

(GAD)

Definition

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is an
anxiety disorder
marked by chronic, exaggerated worrying and anxiety about everyday life. The worry is so severe that it interferes with a person's ability to live his or her life.

Causes

Anxiety may be caused by:

An abnormal neurotransmitter system

Genetics

Environmental factors

Developmental factors

Psychological factors

Risk Factors

Anxiety is more common in females. Factors that may increase the risk of GAD include:

Symptoms of Anxiety

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

You will be asked about any medications that you are taking, including over-the-counter products, herbs, and supplements. Some medications can cause side effects similar to the symptoms of GAD. You will also be asked about any other substances that you may be using such as nicotine, caffeine, illegal drugs, prescription medications, and alcohol.

To make a diagnosis of GAD, symptoms must:

Be present more days than not

Be present for at least six months

Interfere with your life such as causing you to miss work or school

Treatment

If you have a mild form of GAD, your doctor will probably first have you try
therapy
to learn to manage anxious thoughts.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

During
cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), your therapist will work with you to change your patterns of thinking. This will allow you to notice how you react to situations that cause anxiety. You will then learn to change your thinking so you can react differently. This can decrease the symptoms of anxiety.

Behavioral Therapy

Your therapist will teach you relaxation techniques, including deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and visualization. Learning ways to relax can help you gain control over anxiety. Instead of reacting with worry and tension, you can learn to remain calm. Your therapist may also slowly expose you to the situations that cause worry and tension. This can allow you to reduce your anxiety in a safe environment.

Support Groups

Joining a
support group
or self-help group may be beneficial. This form of support allows you to share your experiences and learn how others have coped with GAD.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback
works by attaching sensors to the body. A therapist helps you understand your body’s signals so you can use them to reduce your anxiety.

Medication

Medication can be prescribed for symptoms that are severe and make it difficult to function. Medications can help relieve symptoms so you can concentrate on getting better. It is important to note that many medications cannot be stopped quickly but need to be tapered off. Check with your doctor before discontinuing any medication.

Medications may include:

Benzodiazepines
—to relax your body and keep it from tensing in response to anxious thoughts

Note: These medications need to be monitored closely because they may cause dependence.

Buspirone—an anti-anxiety medication that does not cause dependence

Antidepressant medications such as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors
(SSRIs)—to help control anxious thoughts

Lifestyle Changes

The following lifestyle changes may be helpful:

Learn relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga.

Antidepressant use in children, adolescents, and adults. US Food and Drug Administration website. Available at:
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/InformationbyDrugClass/UCM096273.
Published August 12, 2010. Accessed November 11, 2014.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.